Utah Jazz: Predicting the Starters for Next Season

It is time to look to next season, with hopes for an even more successful one. But a good team must have a good starting five, so here is my prediction of the Jazz starters for next season.

I know it is way too early to know for sure because Utah could be on the better end of a trade or gain a valuable player in the draft. Even if so, I think that these five players will start for the Jazz.

PG: Devin Harris

Steve Dykes/Getty Images

Devin Harris is a great basketball player and former All-Star, and he showed flashes of that greatness at times last season. But at other times, he played terribly. Harris had 19 games in which he scored six or fewer points and several games in which he had multiple turnovers.

Although he may have been inconsistent at times, he is the most experienced guard the Jazz have and has helped the team greatly. I think he will regain his starting role next season and lead Utah to higher levels.

SG: Gordon Hayward

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Gordon Hayward has proven his doubters wrong with a solid season, and he has shown that the future looks bright for the Jazz. Hayward averaged 11.8 points, 3.1 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game, and he has been a leader of the team.

I would not be surprised if Gordon Hayward is named an All-Star within the next few years. He has the potential to be a great player.

SF: Josh Howard

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Josh Howard was on and off the bench all season and has been a disappointment to Utah fans. Averaging only 8.7 points per game isn't exactly satisfying, but he has helped the team in other ways, with more than three boards per contest.

Overall, Howard has helped the team more than hurt it. His defense is great, and he is a decent rebounder. I will be surprised if he doesn't start next season, mainly due to a lack of depth at the position.

PF: Paul Millsap

Elsa/Getty Images

Paul Millsap was a huge part of the team last season, averaging four points more than the season before. He scored 16.6 points per game and was a leader of one of the best frontcourts in the association.

Millsap led the team in steals per game and was second in rebounds. A starting role is almost certain for him next season.

C: Enes Kanter

Enes Kanter was a disappointment to many Jazz fans last season, scoring only 4.6 points per game. As the third pick in the NBA draft, Kanter was expected to make an instant impact.

Although Al Jefferson started at center for the majority of the year, rumors have circulated regarding a trade between the Jazz and others for Jefferson. If so, Enes Kanter seems to be the logical starter at the position. Unless Utah receives a big man during the offseason, expect to see Kanter in the starting lineup.